Fun Of The Fair- Birdfair

Waking up in the early hours of this morning (Sunday), we made our way to Rutland, Leicestershire for  a 9 o'clock start at the 27th annual Birdfair since 1989.  This was my second, as I had visited the fair once before in 2011.  The theme for this year is protecting migratory birds in the eastern Mediterranean, which is especially appropriate due to uncontrolled hunting in countries such as Malta and Cyprus.  Within minutes of arrival, we were all milling around the many marquees, being handed information on birding tours from just about every country in the world, from Malaysia to Iceland, from the Solomon Islands to the Falklands.  We were particularly interested in the Shetland Islands and a very helpful and friendly young gentleman, who apparently lived on Unst for a time, happily told us about the islands, showing his evident passion for them.  A good 2 weeks was suggested to tour the islands properly, allowing a few days spare incase of bad weather.  That is a large part of what makes Birdfair most inviting- the enthusiasm and delight of many of the exhibitors, who relish talking about their own unique subject.  It is a birding event like no other, with like-minded individuals creating a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Front Cover of the Birdfair 2015 Catalogue

All the large Optics companies like Zeiss and Swarovski were present along with main Camera makes such as Canon and Nikon, who allowed the public to test out a wide ranged of their products on the surrounding reed beds outside.  The Art Marquee showcased probably some of the best UK based artists and photographers, my particular favourite being the works of Alison Ingram, whose abstract feel reminded myself of Art Deco paintings, which strongly rely on the feature of geometrics and shapes.  I must also give a mention to the many gifted sculptors, such as Steve Toher and David Askew, whose wood carvings were truly exquisite and which I'm sure took an awfully long time and much skill to complete to that standard.  The Mural outside was brilliantly achieved, composing the styles and traits of many different artists.

Walking between the marquees, we had to step aside for a great crowd of children led by none other than Nick Baker, the eminent naturalist who hosted Springwatch Unsprung for a time.  Also, 'The Urban Birder' David Lindo stood next to his car, which showed the candidates for the Britains National Bird Poll.  At noon, we made our way to the Events tent in order to have a lecture from former producer turned presenter of Springwatch and Autumnwatch Martin Hughes-Games.  Martin described in worrying detail his encounters with man-eaters, falling glaciers and extremely painful Centipedes.  This was his first year at Birdfair, and due to his extremely warm reception, I'm sure he'll come again.  Bill Oddie was said to make an appearance at the Leica stand but due to the unpredictability of the afore mentioned species, he didn't show!

A good variety of natural history books were also for sale, along with holiday firms such as 'Heatherlea', 'Ornitholidays' and 'Bed & Birding'.  All the main nature organisations were present such as RSPB, Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and the Wildlife Trust.  Live Ringing from the BTO was also being shown, with a Sparrowhawk being caught earlier that day.  From the 'gardenature' stand we bought a camera for the garden so that we can both view the feeders close up live and see the Wrens if they hopefully nest again next year in our shed.  From the RSPB we purchased an 'Insect Palace' and from CJ Wildlife, a camouflaged Photographers tent!  This year too, we met up with three people who had been at the Grant Arms in Scotland when we went up there earlier this year.  I highly recommend a visit to anyone interested in wildlife, and it is great, if nothing else, for meeting up with old acquaintances!  After a good 5 hours (and a few ice-creams!) we made our way back home, having had a wonderful day here in Rutland.